In a world of social media and easy online relationships, the search for true friends is more important than ever. Over two thousand years ago, the Roman politician and philosopher Cicero wrote a short guide to finding, keeping, and appreciating friends that is as compelling today as it was long ago. With wit and wisdom, he shows us how to build friendships and why they must be a key part of our lives. For as Cicero says, life without friends is not worth living. Classics professor Philip Freeman will present key ideas from his recent translation of Cicero's work, How to Be a Friend: An Ancient Guide to True Friendship (Princeton University Press).

About Philip Freeman
Philip Freeman completed his undergraduate work in Classics at the University of Texas and earned his Ph.D. from Harvard University. The author of over twenty books on the ancient and medieval world, he taught at Boston University, Washington University, and Luther College before becoming the Fletcher Jones Chair of Western Culture at Pepperdine University.

Planning your visit
The Getty Villa and its galleries are open to the general public from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. With your program ticket, you may arrive up to one hour prior to the start time of the program. For earlier arrival, a separate general admission ticket is recommended. Check-in opens at 2:00 p.m. in the auditorium lobby, doors open at 2:30 p.m. Seating is open and on a first-come, first-served basis. The Cafe is open for lunch service from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

How to Get Here
The Getty Villa is located at 17985 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, approximately 25 miles west of downtown Los Angeles. See Hours, Directions, Parking for directions and parking information.